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Advisory board presses builders on 'universal design' after model-unit tour
Summary
Board members who toured model housing reported builders often label accessibility features as optional 'extras.' Members urged clearer standards, raised concerns about non-accessible front entrances and the strength of grab bars, and asked County Planning for recommendations.
Members who attended a Universal Design meeting and model-unit tour told the board they heard builders describe some accessibility features as optional add-ons rather than standard elements. Several members said that what builders labeled as "universal" did not match seniors’ expectations of accessibility.
Thea Ruff noted that none of the front entrances they toured were accessible without steps and asked whether builders are allowing enough space to add ramps later. Members also raised concerns that shower grab bars included in some units may not be rated to hold full body weight, and that builders sometimes treat blocking for future grab bars as an optional upgrade rather than a standard feature. Adele Connolly, who previously worked in the disability community, said design should be for everyone and expressed concern that some features are being treated as extras.
The minutes record that Gary Hessong from County Planning and DAI staff organized the meeting to gather information from builders and to ensure officials hear residents’ priorities; Hessong is expected to provide a list of recommendations several weeks after the meeting. Members discussed differences between builder language about "universal design" and local building code standards, and noted potential discrepancies between County and City code requirements.
Board members asked staff to follow up and requested that planning provide clarifications and recommended language the board can use when advocating for accessible design in new housing.
